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Marking WORLD LEPROSY DAY with Free Health Camp
The Infectious Diseases Project in Mumbai Smiles Foundation is one that is trying to eliminate five infectious diseases, namely Dengue, Malaria, Tuberculosis, HIV and Leprosy. Recently, on the occasion of World Leprosy Day (which is observed on the 30th of January every year), the team of this project organised a free Medical camp, with special focus on Leprosy.
With the objective of sending out scientific information to the community citizens about Leprosy, the health camp included a poster exhibition to bring about positive changes towards reception of people with this particular disease. The normal check-ups, while included screening the patients for all the five mentioned infectious diseases, special screening was done for Leprosy with skin testing, as well as one-to-one personal counseling was done for all the beneficiaries. Post the testing, medicines were also given out to beneficiaries (to those who needed it and were prescribed by the doctors at the camp), as also patient-record was maintained for further testing and follow up for those who need it. The camp also encouraged group discussions which were held to clear out any misconceptions and doubts regarding Leprosy.
Reaching out to 200 beneficiaries, Dr. Nishad (skin specialist) and Dr. ML Pal (private practitioner) helped with the medical aspect of the camp, by lending their expertise and time for the community where we work and we wish to thank them for supporting in our efforts to create a healthier Mumbai!
